Hagar - Her Legacy Of Prayer

Hagar - Her Legacy Of Prayer

What is the matter, Hagar? Do not be afraid; God has heard the boy crying as he lies there. Lift the boy up and take him by the hand, for I will make him into a great nation.

— Genesis 21:17 – 18

REFLECT ON:	Genesis 21:8 – 21.
PRAISE GOD:	Because he is an all-knowing Father who hears the cries of his children. Nothing that happens to us can ever escape his notice.
OFFER THANKS:	That the Lord runs after the weak and the helpless, to show them his mercy and his plan of blessing for their lives.
CONFESS:	Any pride, selfishness, or other sin that may have contributed to difficulties in your life.
ASK GOD:	To open your eyes to the way he is protecting and providing for you and your children. Ask him to help you live each day, not as a slave to the law but as a child of grace.

Lift Your Heart

Invite a couple of close friends to share a Middle Eastern feast with olives, figs, pita bread, nuts, hummus, tabbouleh, and your favorite drink. Pray a special grace thanking God for providing so richly for you even when you felt you were living through a desert season in your life. Share stories with each other about how God has provided even when you weren’t sure he was listening to your prayers.

Hummus

In a food processor blend 2 cups of cooked or canned chickpeas, drained, with ²/3 cup sesame paste (tahini), ¾ cup lemon juice, salt and freshly ground pepper to taste, and 2 peeled garlic cloves. Stir in ¼ cup finely chopped scallions. Makes about 3 cups. A great dip for bread, chips, or fresh vegetables.

Tabbouleh

1. Place ¾ cup uncooked cracked wheat in a glass bowl and cover with cold water for 30 minutes; then drain completely. (For a softer texture, cover with boiling water and let stand for one hour before draining.)

2. Add 1½ cups chopped fresh parsley; 3 medium tomatoes, chopped; 5 green onions, thinly sliced (with tops); and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh (or 2 teaspoons crushed dried) mint leaves.

3. In a separate bowl, mix ¼ cup olive oil, ¼ cup lemon juice, ¾ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Pour over cracked wheat mixture and toss.

4. Cover and refrigerate at least one hour. Serve with a garnish of mint leaf. Makes 6 servings, about ¾ cup each.

Lord, sometimes I feel abandoned, as though no one understands or cares about me. Please show me that you really are near and that you see and hear everything that happens. Refresh me with your presence even when I am walking through a desert experience. And help me, in turn, to comfort others when they feel hopeless and alone. In Jesus’ name. Amen.